How a Salamander Saved a City: The Science and Politics of Endangered Species

APRIL 22, 2016

Dr. David Hillis

What is the talk about?

How are endangered species discovered? How can they save a city?
Barton Springs is a resource unique to Austin drawing thousands of visitors every year. Yet, Barton Springs is home to endangered species of salamanders rarely seen by the public. In the early 1990s, Dr. David Hillis, a professor at The University of Texas, discovered the Barton Springs salamander. Dr. Hillis will share how the Barton Springs salamander was identified as an endangered species and its impact in Austin’s economic development.
Live animals, including the Barton Springs salamander, will be present during the Community Science Fair.

About our presenter

Dr. David Hillis

Dr. Hillis is a professor of Integrative Biology at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Hillis is best known for his studies of evolutionary biology. He is a recipient of the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship grant, an award recognizing individuals with “exceptional creativity and promise”. Hillis is also a member of the National Academy of Sciences.